An All-Natural Solution to Menstrual Cramps
That time of the month? Again... the dreaded throbbing, the cramps... I feel your pain ladies.
But the question remains the same how do you get relief?
From personal experience, I usually like to avoid pharmaceuticals at all costs, but sometimes during my cycle, it can feel like the unavoidable solution, and I know I'm not alone.
Over the last six months, I have been experimenting with all-natural remedies and found a combination of tricks that have really helped.
Hot water bottle
This help's to relax the muscles in your lower torso and ease up the cramping pain. They've also got the advantage of being non-chemical.
Taking Hot Bath’s
Similarly to the hot water bottle, the heat helps to ease the muscles and reduce pain. It's also a great excuse to get in the bath and have some you time!
Hydrate
Drinking more water. Between 6-8 glasses per day. This is something I have always been terrible at, but It really does help ease bloating, which often makes symptoms worse. If you are like me and find it sometimes a challenge to remember how much water you have had. I would suggest investing in a reusable litre water bottle and adding some lemon wedges, mint, oranges etc. to make it a bit more interesting!
Diet
Anti-inflammatory foods like cherries, blueberries, squash, tomatoes, and bell peppers are good choices. Cold water fish that is high in omega-3 fatty acids are also healthy choices. Eat more calcium-rich beans, almonds, and dark leafy greens. These foods contain compounds that combat inflammation. [1]
Magnesium
AKA “the miracle mineral for periods”[2], Magnesium is an essential mineral that we often do not get enough off and may also help alleviate symptoms of PMS as it plays a role in neuromuscular transmission and muscle contraction. Magnesium is also key to a good night's sleep which I find is definitely needed during my time of the month.
CBD
Studies show that CBD seems to interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) to help modulate pain and inflammation and balance hormones. The ECS regulates and balances many processes in the body in order to maintain internal balance[3] suggesting that CBD oil may provide calming benefits.
“CBD for me, has been a real game-changer! I find that applying Lady A’s everyday healing balm and also using the 750mg morning tincture has eased the uncomfortable feeling and the aches and pain during my cycle. Applying the balm on my stomach, the oil under my tongue, as well as on my wrist and temple pressure points works like magic. I find I am almost instantly less bloated and my headaches fade enabling me to have a far better night’s sleep!”.
Unfortunately, no matter how hard we try period cramps just come with being female; however, using a combination of the above is sure to ease that pain in a natural way. I also suggest being mindful and allowing yourself the needed time for self-care as other factors such as stress and anxiety can also have a massive effect on our pain threshold. Our bodies are extremely complex, and everyone is different! Learning about how yours works is just part of the journey.
If anyone has any other tips or tricks that help them during their cycle please get in touch!
[1] https://bespokeextracts.com/knowledgebase/allnatural-pain-relief-for-menstrual-cramps-with-cbd/
[2] https://www.wellandgood.com/magnesium-for-cramps-pms/
[3] https://bespokeextracts.com/knowledgebase/allnatural-pain-relief-for-menstrual-cramps-with-cbd/